Exclusive test drive with the Fendt 832 Vario Gen5 tractor.

Since 2003, conducting field tests with different types of agricultural machinery, this partnership between Cultivar Máquinas Magazine and the Agrotechnology Laboratory of UFSM has reached over 150 tests. Celebrating this incredible number, we're heading to another launch in the Brazilian tractor market, with the team returning to Fazenda Recanto, in the municipality of Sidrolândia, Mato Grosso do Sul state, for another test drive. Fazenda Recanto, with its more than 5.700 hectares of cultivated area, is a benchmark enterprise for quality mechanized operations. In this context, we found the Fendt 832 Vario Gen5 tractor coupled to a Fendt Momentum 22 seeder, sowing soybeans and at our disposal to explore all its characteristics in field work.

This tractor, launched at Expodireto 2026 in Não-Me-Toque, Rio Grande do Sul, is another Fendt tractor that will complete the brand's portfolio in the country. Fendt will now offer tractors in the market starting from the 262 hp range, with two models from the 700 series, the 300 hp range, with two models from the 800 series, and reaching power outputs exceeding 400 hp with the other six models from the 900, 1000, and 1100MT series.

This tractor arrives on the Brazilian market through a direct import from Germany. However, it is fully configured by the Fendt Brazil team for the Brazilian agricultural system and, therefore, field tests and validation are being carried out, as well as the selection of optional features that will be offered to the national market. Since September 2025, it has been in field work, monitored by the different sectors of the company.

It's a global configuration from Fendt and bears a strong resemblance to the 700 Vario family, with features that suggest it's a blend of the brand's larger and smaller models, incorporating technology proven in both series. For Brazil, the 829 and 832 Vario models will arrive first and will preferably be sold in combination with the Momentum seeder.

The presence of Fendt specialist João Toledo, who is the Marketing Coordinator for Fendt tractors, and operator José Agnaldo Orlandi, nicknamed Bolinha, was fundamental to the success of our test. The two worked very hard to demonstrate the virtues of the Fendt 800 series to us in just one day of work.

Initially, we suspected that Bolinha wouldn't allow us to work on the tractor because of the impeccably clean cabin. But in a short time, he told us a bit about his life story and the beginning of his journey at Fazenda Recanto. With a technical background, José Agnaldo explained that he has admired the work and methods of the farm since his arrival.

The test consisted of monitoring the performance of the Fendt 832 seedling in sowing soybeans over a plot covered with Brachiaria grass that had been desiccated approximately 15 days prior. This activity was part of an experiment by input suppliers, demonstrating new varieties. The target population was 185 plants per hectare, with a spacing of 50 cm between rows. This type of activity is normal, as tests of new materials are always carried out to achieve high productivity.

During the work, we saw that the 22 rows of the Momentum constituted low demands for the test tractor and that, perhaps, the future customers of this tractor will be exactly those who, having a tractor of around 230 hp to 250 hp with a 20-row seeder, want to increase their work capacity using a machine with 22 to 30 rows.

Motorization

The engine powering this new model is the AGCO Power CORE80, a six-cylinder, 8-liter displacement engine with four valves per cylinder, equipped with a VTG variable geometry turbocharger. This engine is highly regarded in Europe.

Two interesting features stand out: firstly, this new generation of engine eliminates the need for valve adjustment, as it is equipped with hydraulic tappets that adjust automatically. Secondly, the engine oil change interval is 500 hours, based on the 31,5-liter volume that fits in the crankcase. Also, a modern feature that comes with the 800 series is the compatibility and guarantee that the engines are prepared for use with HVO (hydrogen carbon dioxide), which is predicted to be the fuel of the future.

It's a new generation engine with electronic fuel injection and designed to operate at low RPMs, which prioritizes reduced fuel consumption and lower pollutant emissions. Even so, the power output is a nominal 320 hp, or 235 kW, which can reach 343 hp when the Fendt Dynamic Performance (DP) system is in action, compensating for the consumption of secondary energy consumers. That's an additional 23 hp of constant performance for auxiliary demands. The manufacturer states that it's different from a conventional (boost) system, which is much more instantaneous, while the Fendt system maintains additional power to supply auxiliary consumers such as the reversible propeller, pneumatic air compressor, air conditioning compressor, and alternator, without reducing the power destined for primary consumers such as traction and/or the hydraulic system.

The maximum power output is 1.700 rpm, significantly lower than other engines that reach nominal power at speeds above 2.000 rpm. The torque, approximately 1.680 Nm, is constant between 1.150 and 1.450 rpm. This engine will be used for all models in the 800 series with different power ranges.

During the test, we observed that the rotation remained stable, within the constant maximum torque range, even with the load we were imposing on the tractor, achieving maximum fuel economy. In these modern tractors, it is more convenient to reduce the load on the drawbar by increasing the travel speed, taking advantage, in situations similar to our test, of the seeder technology that distributes seeds with a pneumatic transport and metering process. In this situation, maximum fuel economy per hectare worked and greater operational capacity, in hectares per hour, are obtained.

Regarding the engine temperature cooling system, in this tractor the fan is driven by a hydraulic motor, located in front of the radiators and has a concentric design, called the Concentric Air System (CAS). In order from front to back, the radiators are positioned for the air conditioning, hydraulic oil, intercooler, transmission, and finally, the engine coolant. An important feature included in this model is the automatic radiator fan reversal function, which removes all debris from the tractor's front grille, where air is drawn for the radiators, eliminating stops for cleaning during operations and improving airflow to the cooling system. This tractor also features an exclusive self-cleaning system for the engine air filter, which monitors the level of obstruction in the air filter during operation. Upon detecting a loss of airflow in the intake, two jets of air are automatically released into the engine air filter, without stopping the tractor or requiring operator intervention. Another exclusive system equipping this new series of tractors is the cabin air filter cleaning system. It is done passively, through a negative pressure system to extract the heavier dust.

Transmission

Regarding power and torque transmission, the 800 series adopted the VarioDrive ML250. This transmission, a success since the launch of the first version in 1995, is a planetary splitter type, with a mechanical epicyclic system (mechanical portion) and another with hydraulic piston motors, with variable position. The hydrostatic system operates at the beginning of the speed range and gives way to the mechanical system at higher speeds and under greater load demands. The VarioDrive transmission has a unique configuration, with a hydraulic motor for each axle and a dedicated clutch for the front axle and another that provides all-wheel drive, automatically engaging both axles.

The maximum speed is 40 km/h, but with options of 50 km/h and 60 km/h, frequently used in Europe. This transmission, among several innovations, features an intelligent torque transfer system between the front and rear axles through a proportional hydraulic actuation mechanism.

In practice, this is where the technological advantage of this system becomes apparent. In automatic mode, you simply select the operating speed, and the software will integrate the engine with the transmission, automatically choosing the engine speed and transmission ratio (not the gear, because the system is continuously variable). During the test, we operated with the multifunction lever (joystick), working at speeds between 6 km/h and 7 km/h. Under these conditions and using automatic mode, we collected some average data, such as a fuel consumption of 29,3 l/h, covering approximately 7,5 ha/h, meaning an effective consumption of around 3,9 l/ha.

The model we tested used dual wheels on both the front and rear axles, with 480/70-R34 front tires and 710/70-R42 rear tires, both from Trelleborg. The VarioGrip system, which automatically controls the internal tire pressure, is available in this series when the tractor version has a flanged axle, even if the tractor has dual wheels. In this system, a water-cooled air compressor supplies air to control the internal pressure, filling and emptying the air inside the tire, improving traction, stability, and comfort according to operating conditions and terrain type. Another benefit of the system is optimizing pressure, keeping it at the lowest possible level to increase the contact area and reduce soil compaction.

For powering mechanisms external to the tractor, this model innovates with a power take-off (PTO) with only one pair of intermediate gears, resulting in minimal power loss. The rear PTO has four standard speeds, 540 and 1.000 rpm, and economy versions (PTOe) at both speeds. As a new feature, the tractor also offers a front PTO as an option.

Hydraulic system

The rear three-point hydraulic system is standard equipment, with a quick-hitch structure. The external control is located on the two rear fenders, and can operate the PTO, the VCRs, and move the third point. The lifting capacity is 10.500 kgf at the hitch points and can be used with double action, exerting force upwards (lifting) or downwards (lowering). For this, it has a load relief system, which makes the force action not constant but varying as the implement receives varying forces, transmitting them to the tractor, which responds by relieving the load and adapting to the condition of the ground surface. This load relief also occurs in the third point arm.

Also innovative for the market and in this power range, the front three-point hydraulic system will be optional and will come standard on tractors in Brazil when there is a need to work with front implements. It is also externally actuated and independent of the rear hitch. The lifting capacity is 5.300 kgf at the quick-hitch points. The load relief, more important on the front hitch than the rear hitch, adapts to all conditions where the front implement has to follow the terrain, such as undulations in the ground, terraces, and depressions, for example.

With two hydraulic pumps placed in series, which together can reach a flow rate of 385 l/min, with an external oil radiator, they compensate for instantaneous pressure variations when more than one consumer is connected and with variations in energy consumption. The two pumps can work together or separately; that is, in equipment that requires more than one hydraulic function, one can be configured for one function and the other for the second function. For example, one will drive hydraulic turbines and the other for line pressure and lifting, as in a pneumatic seeder.

Technology

Talking about technology in Fendt tractors is redundant, but this model surprises in many aspects and it's worth repeating. First, the self-cleaning filter with its reversible propeller.

Already known from other models, the front suspension system is the same used in other Fendt models, fully controllable in both travel and action. This system, called Fendt Stability Control, integrates the active front axle suspension with the tractor's speed, providing greater comfort and safety during operation.

As expected in a tractor of this range and engine power, the system used to reduce engine emissions is the System for Catalytic Reduction (SCR), which uses AdBlue (DEF) as a catalyst. This after-treatment system includes a fuel oxidation catalyst, a particulate filter, and the injection point for the catalytic solution. Based on our experience with electronic fuel injection engines, emissions, especially NOx, are already reduced simply by adopting the common rail system and electronically controlled injectors; even so, with the SCR system, the reduction is further amplified, reaching North American Tier 4 and European Stage 5 levels.

The FendtONE concept is more than just an operator's station with its cab, controls, and commands arranged on a side console. It's a comprehensive vision aimed at achieving maximum performance with maximum operator comfort. It comprises a set of new monitors, a side console with an armrest and multifunction lever, and a set of programmable switches tailored to the operator's preferences and profile. Furthermore, the design facilitates access to controls and function changes, such as an easy-to-use autopilot, path control, and specific elements like field contour lines, slope compensation, automatic load control, and networking with other machines and centralized stations.

Cabin with advanced technology and comfort.

This tractor stands out once again for its cab, which is new and belongs to a new generation. Even at the entrance, it's noticeable that the X6 cab has a wider door, accessed by a four-step ladder. The structure supporting the cab is entirely mounted on a pneumatic suspension at three support points, in the case of the model and version we tested.

When we had the opportunity to operate the tractor, we were able to notice the quality of the Isriti seat, with its pneumatic suspension, lumbar adjustment and heating, upholstered in fabric and with a movable backrest, and the spacious passenger seat, with back support, located to the left of the main seat and which, when placed in the closed position, can be transformed into a work surface.

From the operator's station, there is easy access to four monitors: the first dedicated to tractor operation and autopilot control; the second, exclusive to the Momentum seeder (the 20-20 monitor), controls input application; the Fendt monitor, configured for operational control of the sowing operation; and a fourth monitor, located behind the steering wheel, provides information on tractor operating parameters such as engine speed, travel speed, oil temperature and pressure, and outside temperature. Everything is very easy to view and control. Interestingly, the control device keys can be replaced, allowing the operator to assign tasks to them as needed.

In the version we tested, the rearview mirrors stood out. Besides the split design, with one part for normal vision and the other for wide-angle vision, this version had electric operation and heating. Even with these rearview features, the model includes integrated and discreet front and rear monitoring cameras. Speaking of temperature control, in addition to excellent digital air conditioning and several air vents, a 12-liter refrigerator was present to the right of the seat for the operator's convenience.

At the end of the day and as evening approached, we were able to see the quality of the internal and external lighting, called UltraVision, which is a 360° lighting concept, and the specific Groundvision lighting for areas that the operator needs to observe, such as the drawbar and mudguards. It's a tractor prepared for long night shifts.

In addition to the conventional windshield wiper, the 800 series offers a side window wiper for the cab, with washing function to improve visibility of the ground and equipment.

Most controls remain on the multifunction lever, positioned in front of the console, and the direction reverser and neutral position are on the steering column. The Fendt Guide cruise control is extremely easy to configure, with TI Headland, which automates the headland maneuver.

The rollover protection structure (ROPS), fully integrated into the cabin, has been reinforced and its rollover strength increased.

Dimensional and weight characteristics

Some features of the Fendt 832 are impressive. The tractor we tested weighed a total of 17.100 kgf, with a static weight distribution of 42% on the front axle and 58% on the rear axle. It is in an ideal condition for maximum mechanical efficiency. To achieve this, it was equipped with a metal front weight, in the form of ballast weighing 1.800 kgf, attached to the front three-point hitch system.

Although the use of dual tires on the front axle is not common in Europe, for Brazil the maximum performance condition will be with dual wheels on both axles and with liquid ballast in the tires.

The power-to-weight ratio is 29 kgf/hp unloaded, with an average shipping weight of 9.900 kg and approximately 55 kgf/hp, with a maximum permissible weight of 17.500 kgf. With the configurations brought to Brazil and already tested by Fendt's field technical team, there is a high probability of getting the ballast right during the scheduled setup.

The fuel tank holds 540 liters of diesel and is positioned on the left side, centered between the tractor's axles. Next to it is the 65-liter AdBlue tank, with its two nozzles side-by-side and clearly identified.

As for overall dimensions, the total length is 5.650 mm, the ground clearance is 650 mm, and the wheelbase is 3.020 mm. According to information from the Fendt team, the turning radius is 11,35 m.

Final considerations

To fully understand all the functions, controls, and features of the Fendt 800 series, it would be necessary to work more than one day, as we did. It's a tractor with many new features, and some innovative devices require working time to be properly absorbed.

It is noticeable that some companies, including Fendt, are bringing to the Brazilian market some global models, identical to those sold in their countries of origin. The Fendt 832 Vario Gen5 model is one of them. This is stimulating the national market and seems to be a natural trend that will certainly raise the technological level of tractors, especially those of the major brands.

With this action, manufacturers introduce new technologies and innovations previously unavailable in the national market, requiring operators to have knowledge and training to absorb these benefits.

We at Cultivar Magazine and UFSM have had the opportunity to test this new generation of tractors on several occasions. However, when compared to a tractor like the one in this test, it's noticeable that other brands are falling behind in technological terms.

Jose Fernando Schlosser,
Agrotechnology Laboratory
Nema/UFSM